News Blog

We love to share news about Barbados and our other Blue Sky Luxury destinations. Follow our blog and learn about news and special updates on villas and apartments for vacation rental in Barbados and St. Lucia, our newest destination! More fantastic holiday homes and destinations coming to Blue Sky Luxury soon!

Nestled on the grounds of Porters Great House Estate is the lovely Porters Cottage. As the direct representatives of this lovely home, we, the team at Blue Sky Luxury had to share a bit of history about this stunning Barbados property. From our Reservations Specialist who’ve visited the cottage and know it intimately, to our Property Managers who ensure that all is in perfect working order during your stay, we hope that you’ll fall in love with Porters Estate just like we have.

Catch the second episode of our all new Barbados vacation video “Tag Your Travel Partner!”. This series is guaranteed to incite your wanderlust! Our Concierge Can team at Blue Sky Luxury has lots of local knowledge to ensure that you enjoy an authentic local experience. What are you waiting for? Tag Your Travel Partner!

Experience the Magic of Messel by visiting Fustic House, a historical 11-acre estate perched on a coral ridge in St. Lucy! Boasting unforgettable views, this grand estate will be open to the public for an Open House programme presented by the Barbados National Trust. Visitors will be in for a treat as the team at Blue Sky Luxury will be on hand to share details on this exclusive vacation home that is a part of our flagship portfolio! Come meet our team, have a delicious sno cone or take a picture for your loved ones battling the icy weather! Click here for a preview of Fustic House - a stunning Barbados holiday home!

The distinctive sound of the bat cracking against the leathery ball, lively cheers and thunderous appeals have started to fill the air around the legendary Kensington Oval as 2019 opens with a bang for lovers of the island’s national sport. The England tour of the West Indies kicked off in Barbados from January 23 to January 27 with the first test match, and the island has already welcomed scores of British visitors making the pilgrimage to the cricketing Mecca of the Caribbean.

Only an earshot away from luxury vacation rentals Palm Beach and Margate Gardens, chic new number the Blue Pineapple has unveiled it's uniqueness. Set out on a manicured lawn on the Hastings boardwalk and featuring elements from Asia and the Mediterranean, the lounge/ restaurant is almost completely outdoors except for its covered dining area; which is ideally suited for larger parties. With most of the seating having been designed purely for lounging on, you can literally kick off your shoes and just relax.

January may be over but the excitement doesn't have to be! If you haven't already indulged in the thrills and frills of Barbados Sailing Week - or even if you have, there's some more exhilarating water-sporting action via deAction Waterman Beach Festival up ahead. Or maybe you just want to make this Barbados beach holiday even more breathtaking by booking Microlight Aerial Tour's Open Air Cockpit Flight to find yourself locked in extraordinary enchanting views of the island. Whatever blows your hair back most, our Concierge Can team is on call to expedite.

If Kit Braden’s wife Rose hadn’t suffered from a winter cough, the couple’s present life might have been very different. Having never given much thought to the Caribbean – after all, he is chairman of the ­Provençal beauty company L’Occitane and has spent much time in the Mediterranean – the extended family took a house on the beach at Prickly Bay, Grenada, for the winter of 2012-13. It offered sunshine and warmth and a chance for that cough to clear up.

Barbados Sailing Week takes place from January 16th to 24th, 2019! And our team is SO excited. From coastal races to the round the island race...we're looking forward to seeing who wins their weight in Mount Gay Extra Old Rum!

What’s on your mind for 2019? Whatever you decide, if you want to take your new year’s resolution to the next level - while making fond memories and stirring up a bit of holiday envy - Barbados is the place to do it! Here are the top five resolutions you can make - and keep - in Barbados!

With the New Year comes new goals and that time is again approaching! Whether you’re looking to be thrilled by the atmosphere of a polo match or simply entranced by the exquisite sights and smells of a garden and flower show, our Concierge Can team has the ability to tailor to suit.

A Blue Sky Luxury Christmas vacation in Barbados with the family affords you the luxury to retreat from it all in the tranquility and pampering of your handpicked luxury villa. And, rest assured that your holiday home will be outfitted with friendly, attentive staff that caters to your every need while you relax and enjoy quality family time and make lasting memories.

Christmas isn’t Christmas without the K9 Friends Barbados Charity Auction! The charity, which is synonymous with the festive season, continues to benefit the island’s furry residents by epitomizing the spirit of the season as locals and visitors patronize in the spirit of giving!

Our all new Barbados vacation video “Tag Your Travel Partner!” is guaranteed to incite your wanderlust! Our Concierge Can team at Blue Sky Luxury has lots of local knowledge to ensure that you enjoy an authentic local experience. What are you waiting for? Tag Your Travel Partner!

It's not an Illusion... Warmth beckons, leave the chill behind and escape to this Barbados vacation villa for the holidays.

This elegantly designed holiday rental is nestled in the gated community of the Sugar Hill Resort. Enjoy breathtaking beach views, beautifully landscaped gardens- with bananas, papayas and coconuts depending on the time of year and a verdant putting green to sharpen up your game! Guest have access to the beach facility at the Fairmont Royal Pavilion hotel a short drive away.

What’s your favourite number? Why you might ask? Well this year, Barbados’ favourite number is 52 and here’s why - on November 30, as the clocks strike midnight, Barbados’ 52nd year of Independence will officially begin! For the lucky ones who’ve booked their Barbados holiday for November, you are surely in store for an unexpected treat. This month, the most Barbadian of Barbadian sights, tastes and sounds are on display across the island, culminating with an extravaganza of activities on the last day! Let’s take a look at the day’s events as we invite you to participate in whatever your heart desires!

Oyster Bay is a four bedroom vacation villa with a swimming pool located on the beautiful Lower Carlton Beach on Reeds Bay, West Coast. This holiday home is fully enclosed and offers extensive beach frontage and excellent swimming in front of the villa. The owners provide a gift basket for guests staying at this villa for the first time and champagne for repeat guests!

The months of November and December are some of the most exciting in Barbados. November brought us The Barbados Open Water Festival, Nifca and yet to come is Independence Day in Barbados which falls on November 30th! This is a special time for Barbadians so check out our blog on what Independence means to Barbados and how we celebrate it...Bajan style! As December approaches, the festive season is on every one's minds so our December Edition of "Something's Happening" tells you what's happening in December. We look forward to the Run Barbados Marathon Weekend that runs (pun intended) from December 7th - 9th. Carols by Candlelight, a magical evening of candlelight and music in aid of raising funds for the less fortunate in Barbados and not to be missed K9 Charity usually hosted by Simon Cowell and Lauren Silverman. Read on!

It’s 6:00 pm and the Concierge team and I arrive at the Mews for a Concierge Party to experience a firsthand taste of their new “Farm to Table” menu. The Mews is a “not so typical” eatery nestled off a side street in the hustle and bustle of the 2nd Street neighbourhood in Holetown, Barbados. We’re super excited, as we love to have a firsthand experience to ensure that our guests are having the very best. Ladies and gentlemen…The Mews did not disappoint.

We’ll forgive you if you don’t know this, but Barbados celebrates independence on November 30! And, in this our 52nd year of independence, we want you to get ready to experience our culture through the arts all month long!

Every November for the last 45 years, the annual National Independence Festival of Creative Arts - simply known as NIFCA - has been held at various venues across the island as an ode to the island’s performing, visual, culinary and literary arts.

Calling all competitive - and hobbyist - swimmers! From November 7 through November 11, the most spectacular open water swimming event will take place on the island - we welcome you to the 2018 Barbados Open Water Festival!

The five-day festival, which has become a staple on the Barbados calendar of sporting events for the past seven years, will feature three practice swims, one fun event and will culminate with three swim races - all hosted at some of the most spellbinding beaches the island has to offer. Check out the full schedule for the Barbados Open Water Festival!

The great thing about the Barbados Open Water Festival is that it is the perfect blend of competitive action, camaraderie, gorgeous views and an experience like no other open water festival! But don’t just take our word for it! We’ve met with veteran competitor Amanda Garcia, our skilled Property Manager of luxury villaCrystal Springs to get a first-hand account of the amazing festival!

With the holidays fast approaching, we invite you to step inside the toasty warmth of luxury vacation villa Marsh Mellow …

This uniquely designed holiday home will inspire your travel dreams for Christmas and the New Year! Perched on a magnificent ridge, this home commands stunning ocean views from every room and is ideal for family and friends.

If you are a surfer, surf enthusiast or you just generally love outdoor events then you should visit Barbados for the PEG Independence Surf Festival for the ultimate Barbados getaway! All paths lead to the iconic “mushroom rock” at Soup Bowl, Bathsheba where the action will take place from November 6th – 11th 2018. If you’ve never visited, then put aside any thoughts that you may have about the rugged beauty of the east coast. Unlike the polished west and south coasts of Barbados, a visit to Soup Bowl is like no other. Known mainly for surfing, a drive down to the east coast evokes the feeling of being lost in a rugged paradise.

The Barbados flag is emblazoned with Poseidon’s trident for a reason. The waters off this island are nothing more than breathtaking, and pique each sense for an unforgettable experience that is reminiscent of sirens in its allure. The west coast of the island has the glassiest, most lounge-worthy beaches, which creates the perfect environment for watersports and other ocean- related soft adventures that have become staples during every Barbados holiday.

October heralds the start of the Barbados Food and Rum Festival 2018! The festival starts a month early this year, on October 18 - 21 - a move which has been reportedly received with delight by many who have been unable to participate in the festival in previous years. For all of our foodies, this is great news! We encourage you to indulge in true Barbadian culinary arts not only at the festival but with a stay at one of our Barbados vacation rentals which offer exceptional gastronomical fare. Read on, we’ll tell you what’s new with the festival, where to stay in Barbados and how you can get free nights in fall with Blue Sky Luxury – The Holiday Home Experts!

Head on down to Batts Rock, St. James to experience sundowners at La Cabane, Barbados’ newest and trendiest beach bar! With uninterrupted views across perfectly turquoise waters and breathtaking views, La Cabane is a breezy drive away from luxury vacation rentals Senderlea and The newly renovated The Villa & The One at the St. James. Described as “ A place to relax all day, from early morning for breakfast through until late for dinner under the stars.” We’ve been to La Cabane, we’ve seen and we’ve tasted … and it lives up to the description!

The meek north has its historic bounties, and the west prides itself in luxuriousness, but the southern and eastern coasts combined are a cornucopia of everything. If you take a map of the island and trace your finger along the coastline from Bridgetown to Bathsheba, the arc resembles a smile; but, as the saying goes, there is much more to this area than meets the eye. The narrative of these two coasts is a colourful one, and just like protagonists and antagonists of stories, their personalities couldn’t be more contrasting nor their intentions more sundry.

As the holiday home experts in Barbados, our expertise is all about creating exceptional Barbados vacations; including guiding you on local events and iconic activities. This includes - how to have a great outing at a cricket match, have conversational knowledge on the game, or as most of us do, simply enjoy the action packed outing – with friends and family. For the cricket experts, who already know all about the sport, we’ll tell you how cricket has evolved in Barbados, from low key to super entertaining!

Blue Sky Luxury Barbados has two new additions to their luxury holiday rentals portfolio! 'The Villa at The St. James' and 'The One at the St. James' are two new exclusive beachfront apartments along the exclusive West Coast of Barbados just south of the world famous Sandy Lane Hotel. Click through to our official website to explore these stunning beachfront vacation rentals!

Click here to view - The Villa at The St. James Click here to view - The One at the St. James

N.B. Images are of the show home and are representative of the furnishings at this point. The home will be completed in November 2018 at which time actual photos will be presented.

Every island and country boasts about their historic gems. But in Barbados, our stories are quite colourful! With chapters of our history featuring protagonists such as pirates and their shenanigans, and even presidents of great nations, we’re sure you’ll appreciate visiting these iconic locations for a peek into the island’s past!

Leave your shorts and swim suits out for just a bit longer and jet off to Barbados for the Fall getaway of a lifetime! This fall, there is so much to do on island that we’re having trouble choosing one specific event and activity for you to enjoy. Whether you decide to participate, indulge or just enjoy from the comfort of the sidelines, check out some of the Fall fun Barbados has in store for you with our top picks to enjoy!

Before we start singing, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! (Although it is!) Let’s dial it back a bit and take a minute to appreciate how envious your friends would be if you escaped to Barbados for a fall holiday! If you can’t make it this fall, our winter holiday home selection will woo you to warmer climes in Barbados in no time! From west to south, be inspired by some of our best community living selections for fall or winter 2018!

Slow food? Check. Vegan options? Check. Fresh fruit juices or water straight from the coconut? Check, check, check! Across the region, Barbados is known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, and our little island brings exceptional treats and flavours to the global table. But, one would argue that the most scintillating food experience lies in the island’s authentic eats, and some of the most popular in recent times has been the rise in local food vans! So, prepare to nestle down on a park bench or enjoy the view from your rental as you tuck in to the tasty treats from some of our favourite food vans below!

If you’re on your way to paradise, it’s safe to say you’re in the market for the most authentic Barbados experience. So, let our team at Blue Sky Luxury introduce you to the best of the best of Barbados with our top ten things to do and see while you’re out and about in Barbados!

Historically, Barbados was known as a destination conducive to rest, relaxation and recuperation. With this health and wellness status heralded across the seas at the time, its most notable ‘patient’ was the brother of the very first president of the United States. Nowadays, the island’s therapeutic nature still emanates from its beaches, countryside and pervades the air, but several modern amenities have also cropped up and have now become staples of a relaxing, refreshing holiday.

From June to September, visitors flock to the island of Barbados to enjoy our sweet summer holidays! Our best-in-class villas provide the finest accommodation on the island with warm, friendly and attentive staff. With the winter season fast approaching, we thought we’d share some villa guest reviews for your winter holiday getaway inspiration.

So you’re coming to the beautiful island of Barbados for a relaxing holiday getaway, why not come prepared? Have a little fun and practice your Bajan dialect. The locals will be surprised at your mastery of the local language! All languages are beautiful and immersing yourself in local culture wherever you go is an amazing experience! Barbados is an English-speaking island but our dialect is referred to as “Bajan”. Bajans tend to shorten words….a lot! You can expect to hear dialect like this:

Read our blog on exciting events in Barbados for August 2018! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of fun events for the family including dining, sporting, entertainment and so much more. Let our Concierge team help you to book your car rentals, baby gear and in house needs.

Crop Over is a tradition in Barbados that dates back over 200 hundred years, celebrating the end of our Sugar Cane harvest. Celebratory events start in June and lead all the way up to the beginning of August, ending with Kadooment- the islands most prominent street festival. The island comes alive with culinary street fairs, craft markets, local music competitions and incredible parties with an authentic island vibe!

Everyone knows that one of the best indicators of an enjoyable vacation is how good the food is. Whether it’s that amazing snapper that you had on last year’s family vacation or the Passionfruit granita during your birthday getaway, our palate often plays a crucial role (along with your waist line!!) in how memorable your holiday is. So with that being said, this entry is to assure you that if this is indeed true, your time in Barbados will be unforgettable. Our food offerings are as varied as they are exciting; be prepared to try dishes that you’ve never heard of and those which you can’t get enough of- with a little twist, of course.

The first chapter in the story of modern day Barbados opens on a virgin western shore in 1625, where the first British boots touched the coral island in the area now known as Holetown. At the time - and with no stretch of the imagination - King James I of England lent his name to the area, and for several years it would be referred to as Jamestown.

Macaroni Pie is a signature Barbadian dish, and without a doubt you will find very few Bajans who don’t consider it to be one of their favorites. Macaroni Pie, or ‘Pie’, as many Bajans call it, is served as a side dish to anything from Flying fish to Baked Chicken. Add some gravy and salad and you have an award winning meal.

We’re warming up for the official start of summer in Barbados and there’s so much to do in our sunny holiday paradise. A simple favorite is going to the beach! If you’ve never visited, heard us mention beach and you’re thinking "I'm booking now" or you simply need a brush up on local beaches in Barbados, we're here to help! You can plan an entire day beach hopping from one sunny spot to another. Visit the star studded shores of Sandy Lane beach where celebrates like Simon Cowell and Rihanna frolic; to the peace and quiet of Folkestone Marine Park, a family friendly retreat with the ideal picnic spot!

Bums on Bikes saddle up for John O’Groats.

When we cater to our clients, we are motivated by our deep-seated desire to help them achieve the right balance necessary for a quality life. In this vein, Blue Sky Luxury has risen to the occasion by answering the appeal of a very worthy cause - the fight against bowel cancer. Through the United Kingdom-based (UK) Bums on Bikes Charity, we have pledged our support to give hope to those suffering with the second biggest cancer killer in the UK, which affects one in every eighteen people in the population.

From bustling Bridgetown, heading north, travel twelve miles along the west coast of Barbados for an experience that is a stark contrast to what you have left behind. Welcome to Speightstown. The quiet sister of Bridgetown, Oistins and Holetown was named after William Speight - one of the members of the island’s first assembly - and is the second largest town in Barbados, catering to the residents of the north.

Read our blog on exciting events in Barbados for May 2018! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of fun events for the family including dining, sporting, entertainment and so much more. Let our Concierge team help you to book your car rentals, baby gear and in house needs.

There are numerous, talented artists in Barbados, who have been producing a variety of work over the years. An online Barbados Art Directory was produced by Corrie Scott & Kathy Yearwood in 2011 that gives a great introduction to most of the artists and their work. I have found this directory to be extremely useful when trying to find a certain style of art or artist.

Prepare yourself for sensory overload, Barbados is beautiful, everything is near and your stay at Sapphire Beach Condominiums guarantees that you are close to the action yet far enough to preserve your tranquility. We’ve compiled a short guide to follow on what to do and where to go in St. Lawrence Gap. As your Barbados holiday apartment is near to a variety of restaurants, local rum shops and nightlife, you can explore and enjoy at your leisure. Once you are ready to leave the comfort of The Gap, view Something’s Happening in Barbados – our April edition. This gives you a complete list of things to do in Barbados. Polo, horse racing, marathons, boat racing, historical tours and art exhibitions! The list is endless…view here

The year 2016 will always be remembered as the culmination of culture and identity through the celebration of Barbados’ 50th year of Independence - a milestone that only a few will witness in their lifetime. This golden year rests solidly on a history that is a little bit British with a dash of Africana, creating a colourful landscape and people that the world would know and identify as ‘of Barbados.’

The island’s colonial past is summed up primarily in its architecture, including the forts and other structures at the Garrison Historic area, and the affinity for its people to spur on the traditions of horse racing and polo up to today. And most aptly housed in such an area is the national museum, where history is dictated to history aficionados and the genuinely curious.

Lovers of Barbados are used to its warming people, bedazzling waters and rolling greens. But, what they don’t usually talk about is the unbeaten path - one which usually leads to a revitalizing experience that is sure to become the new ritual of your Barbados holidays. So, if rejuvenation is at the top of your summer to-do list, we introduce to you Barbados’ healing and relaxing charm with our top three picks for a peaceful getaway.

The launch of Hugo’s Restaurant in the picturesque town of Speightstown is akin to manna from heaven! Touted as “ Something HUGE is coming to Barbados” the modern beachfront eatery did not disappoint. From start to finish, the experience was simply magical! Hugo’s officially opened their doors on December 22 but invited guests were welcomed for a much-appreciated pre launch.

Photo compliments Sundale Foods International

Every Barbadian knows that the beautiful waters off Barbados are quietly teeming with a bountiful harvest. So, there is no surprise that a multitude of fish dishes are found on menus and tables across the island; however, one of the favourites remains fried flying fish. Whether paired with rice and peas or sandwiched between a soft salt bread (a local white-flour bun) fried flying fish is without a doubt a signature of authentic Bajan cuisine. Recreate Barbadian friend flying fish at home by following our recipe below!

Photo compliments Braddies Bar Barbados

What is a Rum Shop?

There are a few hundred Rum shops across Barbados, all are located in a Chattel House (a wooden shack with a corrugated roof), some have been extended and may have separate seating. They are easily identified as they are usually brightly painted and many have been branded by a variety of local company or product, such as Mount Gay, Absolute, Banks Beer, Guinness or even a mobile phone provider.

The idyllic scene that pops to mind when considering a destination wedding is punctuated by toes in soft, white sand, beautiful blue waters and -perhaps - a coconut tree or two. However, in Barbados, this vision of an island wedding is actually just the tip of the iceberg. In reality, a destination wedding in Barbados is much more diverse than you would imagine. The island is blessed with hundreds of stunning venues with their own unique charms, and many wedding planners who have mastered the craft of creating dreams.

If you’re in Barbados already or planning your trip to our lovely island, our concierge team has compiled a detailed list of exciting things for you to do in March! There’s something for everyone at this time of year. Sporting enthusiasts can enjoy polo, horse racing and go carting. If you’ve never been on a local hike or run, then get active and participate in a hike surrounded by interesting flora and fauna or a local 5 K Walk. History buffs will definitely enjoy historic tours of the Garrison Historic area and tunnels or a tour of the Portvale Sugar Factory to revisit the sugar production process. If you’re just here to unwind, there’s a range of local farmers markets, restaurants, cosy bars and lots of rum to keep you entertained. Go on, read on to see what’s happening in March!

In reverence to the season of love and all its accompanying sentiments, we declare our love for crafting your perfect getaway. And during the month of love, we are especially eager to create a love-filled experience. Whist known for our affinity to wow with our selection of perfect holiday homes, we are also purveyors of lounging beside turquoise waters, sipping sturdy rum punches, and indulging in all the fancies of pure island luxury. Therefore, we recommend you consider our six top runners for having the most romantic getaway yet.

Exciting events are happening in Barbados in the month of love and we’re happy to provide you with information on some of the most exciting events! Whether you’re a polo or cricket fan, a lover of local heritage festivals or a true culture buff, we have lots of events going on. From sporting, entertainment, cultural and, of course, restaurants, there’s Something Happening in Barbados!

Bridgetown: The island’s capital. Home of the third oldest parliament in the Americas. The centre of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bridgetown really needs no introduction. But, for the sake of this article, we will force ourselves to do it justice in words.

If you’re looking to travel soon for your annual holiday or you’re simply trying to escape the winter blues then come to Barbados to experience true Barbadian culture. Your holiday could become one of the most exciting trips yet - even if you’ve visited the island already! Unlock the secret treasures of Barbados and read on to learn all about the Annual Sugar & Rum Season 2018!

The story of beachside fine dining is best told on Barbados flamboyant west coast. Its amazing culinary offering, plus the unique but lavish presentations have defined it as a place where every palate finds its food soulmate.

St. James is one of the smallest parishes in Barbados; however, immense significance and character precede it. Known as the place where British boots first touched Barbados’ soil, St. James was one of the first six parish names to be included on the early map renders of the island. But with all due respect to this historic importance, St. James has evolved into a crèche of luxury, musings and island posh, where even Mother Nature seems to tend her kin with an extra refinement and pomp.

On the map of Barbados, the tippy-top point features a star cast of places of interest. And, although they may be counted on one hand, these places are delightful and unexpected journeys into a rich, colourful culture and unspoilt, natural heritage.

Barbados is known for its luxurious west coast, exciting south and thrill-seeking east, but the north of the island is possibly the most endearing experience to be had. And, this winter, all eyes will be on the beacon of the north, Speightstown, as many new and exciting fixtures are unveiled!

If Barbados were a person, the northern bit of the island that ends along the lower St. James-St. Peter border would be its proud head. Stretching over the two parishes of St. Lucy and St. Peter, the northwest is where the journey to the quieter, more mature side of Barbados’ personality beings.

Instead of looking to the skies to wish on a shooting star, take to the skies and make your way to Barbados! Get packed, choose your favourite on-board experience and get set to be whisked off to your Barbados winter getaway!

When you choose to enjoy the luxury villa Umoya for your Barbados holiday, not only can you tailor your stay at this amazing holiday home, you also get the opportunity to indulge in the luxury amenities at Apes Hill Club!

The Apes Hill Club development is situated on the platinum coast of Barbados in a private, magical setting that wows you upon entry. The development is highlighted by panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea and nothing prepares you for the vibrant natural beauty of this gorgeous retreat. If you think you’ll have nothing to do in paradise, well think again!

We all wish time stopped while on holiday, but it really does fly when you're having fun and moves even more quickly on a short break! There's so much to do in Barbados, you could easily fill a lengthy itinerary, but what do you chose when time is limited?

To ensure you make the most of a quick trip to Barbados our Concierge Can team has compiled the top 5 things to do on a short break.

As the busiest (and most joyful!) time of the year is approaching, we’ve compiled a selection of events in Barbados that you don’t want to miss! The sheer excitement of a Bajan Christmas with the delightful sounds of caroling and the traditional Christmas morning in the park fills our stockings with good cheer! Before we get carried away with the thrill of Christmas, there’s so much more to do before the yuletide season. With the help of our Concierge team and a stay at one of our luxury villas, you’ll be sure to get into the Christmas spirit! Read our blog for a list of very exciting events!

In Barbados there is so much to experience on New Year's Eve. The island comes alive with music, food and beautiful people. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless. Many New Years resolutions are made in Barbados and the first resolution you should make is to celebrate you; make magical memories in a stunning setting, doing things you’ve never done before!

Do you want to experience a Bajan celebration? We have the perfect suggestions for you!

In Barbados there is so much to experience on New Year's Eve. The island comes alive with music, food and beautiful people. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless. Many New Years resolutions are made in Barbados and the first resolution you should make is to celebrate you; make magical memories in a stunning setting, doing things you’ve never done before!

Read our blog for a guide on some delightful gastronomical experiences you'll never want to miss!

In Barbados there is so much to experience on Old Years Night. The island comes alive with music, food and beautiful people. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless. Many New Years resolutions are made in Barbados and the first resolution you should make is to celebrate you; make magical memories in a stunning setting, doing things you’ve never done before!

Barbados has so much to offer…from our pristine beaches to our amazing people and culture. We reached out to our facebook fans and asked, "what’s YOUR favorite part of Barbados?" Here are some of the great answers we got from our followers

Our island is home to the second largest nesting population of Hawksbill turtles in the Western hemisphere. Many of our beachfront villas sit along shoreline where Hawksbill and Green Turtles come to lay their eggs annually, and hundreds of tiny hatchlings emerge from nests to make their way back to the sea. If you are lucky enough to observe either of these events you are bound to fall in love with these beautiful creatures.

The island is your playground at this quieter time of year. Maybe you crave pure relaxation, reconnection, adrenaline or a blend of all three? Our experienced concierge team knows all the little secrets and special experiences, which can help make your holiday one you will cherish forever, and we don’t want you to miss a moment of fun. Following please find details for some of our favorite upcoming activities this September and October. We have placed special focus on some of the fabulous festivals but there are also a variety of other activities to enjoy. Read on to learn more:

The island’s year round warm sunshine and beautiful surroundings create the perfect setting to nurture your body and soul. This fall, the Barbados calendar will feature three exhilarating firsts centred around wellness and enjoyment - the Barbados Beach and Wellness Festival, the Barbados Cycling Festival and the Dragon World Championships! Set in stunning locations and guided by leaders in their respective disciplines these festivals are a wonderful opportunity to meet other like minded people and experience even more of what our island has to offer!

Christmas is one of the most wonderful times to visit Barbados. Many of our repeat guests visit us annually to celebrate this special time of year building treasured lifelong memories. The island’s sunny weather somehow seems even more stunning over this festive season, and there is a vibrant and friendly feel as locals and visitors share in an enormous range of events and activities. Our varied heritage translates into a mix of British and authentically “Bajan” Christmas traditions offering a unique experience.

The big day. In Barbados, this has nothing to do with rings, love nor marital bliss, but it has everything to do with culture, friends, food, music and all the feel-good island life has to offer. The island’s big day is celebrated on the first Monday each August - Kadooment Day. This annual carnival is the culmination of the Crop Over festival, a 2-month long celebration that is steeped in history, and is rich in culture and national pride.

We are excited to announce our new Friends & Family Rewards Program to our loyal guests. With this new program. Its easy, simply refer your nearest and dearest to stay with us at a Blue Sky Luxury vacation villa or apartment, and on confirmation of your friends or family’s booking, you’ll BOTH be rewarded.

Every month in Barbados there are always a variety of exciting activities and events taking place. However, there is no time of year that can quite compare to the months of July and August. With the Grand Kadooment festival approaching, these months are packed with lead up events, festivals and parties for everyone to enjoy. There is never a dull moment on the island during the Crop Over season.

Earlier this month, the team at Blue Sky Luxury, in collaboration with the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., invited a group of journalists to trade the editorial room for a beachside “office” with a view! The group of six, who hailed form the United Kingdom, and the United States represented some of the chicest luxury magazines on the market, namely Boat International, Mayfair Times, Portfolio by The Week, and Women’s Health, and FS.

Fun with family and friends. Relaxation, a flexible schedule, a chance to “just be you” and enjoy those who are most special. A unique setting, space, a home away from home. All of this can be enjoyed in a gorgeous holiday home - this is what vacations are made of. Villa vacations offer so much more than a traditional hotel stay and here are our top reasons why:

Every month our island has different events and opportunities that will make your holiday unforgettable. From motor sport events to Crop Over festivals the coming months are filled with occasions for you and your whole family. Our Concierge Can team has put together this list with a variety of activities available to you during your holiday.

This May sees the highly anticipated return of The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, a five day garden show filled with famous flower and landscape gardens. With London preparing to become a flower frenzy, Barbados is the perfect escape for horticulturists searching for a new scent. Having participated in the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for the past 28 years and winning an impressive 18 gold awards, Barbados marks its place as an authoritative voice on floriculture. Visitors can explore the tropical gardens, discover native plants and enjoy the sandy white beaches the island offers, while staying in one of our 120 iconic and beautiful holiday houses.

With the growing trend for combining holidays with landmark celebrations – from intimate weddings to big birthdays and those once-in-a-lifetime honey(or buddy)moons – We share a selection of sumptuous properties and all manner of bespoke arrangements to guarantee memorable moments that last long after the celebrations cease.

There is no better time to visit Barbados as a family than during the summer, when the island is in full-bloom with activities, cultural events and an effervescence that highlights all of its hidden charms. Barbados sets the mood for you to reconnect and create lasting summer memories with those who matter most. Our island is proud to be a welcoming, safe holiday environment where visitors and families enjoy interacting with the locals for an authentic taste of Barbadian life. So, whether it’s something entertaining, relaxing or educational you crave, we’ve got the whole family covered with our top picks on how to make the most of summer in Barbados!

Barbadians love food and they do it well. From tartes and gourmet creations at fine dining restaurants to grilled snapper and breadfruit chips at roadside eateries, the island is ripe with foodie experiences waiting to be explored. So, let’s get the ball rolling with some suggestions for our three types of favourite foodies.

Barbados is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing people and opulent lifestyle. But, connoisseurs of the island have a few travel tricks up their sleeves to make their Barbados holiday even more enjoyable and affordable! Read on as our team provides advice on a Barbados spring vacation packed with authentic experiences, local adventures and travel tips to help you get the most bang for your buck!

Spring is nigh, but the Barbados’ Sugar and Rum season is already in full swing! The brainchild of the Barbados Tourism Product Authority, the Sugar and Rum Season 2017 is the newest celebration of sugar and rum to hit the island’s events’ calendar, paying a colourful tribute to the island’s rich heritage and culture surrounding its most prolific treats.

The most obvious perk of island life is beautiful beaches, and the beaches in Barbados are everything - sandy coves, craggy cliffs, glassy waters, sassy waves - everything. Not to mention the fact that the island is small enough for you to explore every single beach option during one holiday! But, if there is any doubt that Barbados ticks all these boxes when it comes to varying types of beach getaways, let us introduce you to some of our favourite coastal picks for making any seaside dream come true. Read on to learn about Alleyne's Bay, Bathsheba, Dover Beach and The Crane beach.

Our island abounds with opportunities ranging from the sublime to the exhilarating and our Concierge Can team is here to help our guests choose those activities that will make their stay with us unforgettable. Easter time is no exception as it is one of the busiest months of the year on the island. As soon as spring comes full bloom, Barbadians of all ages and walks of life eagerly look forward to this time of year. For us, it is the biggest religious holiday after Christmas, but for you, it is the perfect time to experience our local Easter traditions and all the wonderful events which take place at this time of year.

The Concierge Can team has created the following list of some of their favorite upcoming activities around this time of year to help you get your holiday plans started.

When considering sports and outdoor activities, Barbados is known as a mecca, a paradise and the home to several disciplines found on the island. From leisurely activities, such as horseback riding and hiking, to the best in watersports, Barbados brings the sporting diversity along with the perfect climate to enjoy an active holiday!

This year, Easter holidays to Barbados are a steal, giving holidaymakers the unique opportunity to experience high-season Barbados at low-season prices - including wonderful deals on some of the island’s most beautiful holiday homes! And, if that isn’t enough, the island will be abuzz with several activities and events - namely those around Easter - that are sure to interrupt those leisurely days at the beach!

Barbados is a luxurious Caribbean destination that stands in a class by itself. This culturally-rich island is known for its enviable year-round sunshine, pristine white-sandy beaches, prestigious golf courses and so much more.

Our island abounds with opportunities ranging from the sublime to the exhilarating and our Concierge Can team is here to help our guests choose those activities that will make their stay with us unforgettable. The Concierge Can team has created the following list of some of their favorite upcoming activities to help you get your holiday plans started.

The Broadway to Barbados Charitable Trust will once again stage the Broadway to Barbados show in collaboration with title sponsor Diamonds International. Enjoy seven nights over the months of February and March of entertaining postures and pieces during the tribute to the ‘greatest songs of the silver screen and Broadway.

Exciting action, beautiful steed, and a friendly atmosphere set among beautiful grounds. This is the essence of polo in Barbados! This year, the Barbados polo season will take its usual course, running from January through May 2017 with a tantalizing calendar of events.

And they’re off! The excitement of the 2017 Barbados Sandy Lane Gold Cup horserace is already in the air, and locals and visitors alike await with bated breath to see how this year’s race will conclude.

Barbados holidays are always prefaced by lovely weather, stunning shores and breathtaking beaches. But its balmy breezes and immaculate sunshine also give way to an exciting centuries-old tradition that treats hundreds of locals and visitors yearly as they perch along its expansive green fields. Dotted across the island is the manifestation of an appreciation for everything equine - polo fields, a savannah, equestrian courses and even its coastal sands set a backdrop for this kind of recreation. And, if that is not enough to jolt the spontaneous humming of the William Tell Overture, on any given day, you may find a steed taking a dip with its trainer at one of the west-to-south coast beaches!

Stylish. Chic. Barbados. These words meld more perfectly together than you’d ever know! The island is home to several international - and high-end - fashion brands that bring a worldliness to the decadent shores.

When it comes to planning your holiday this year, Barbados offers the perfect canvas for you to make 2017 the Year of your perfect vacation getaway! Therefore, our New Year’s resolution to you is clear - we promise that your Barbados vacation will be the best holiday you’ll have all year!

Barbados is a special place for surf, and we have seen an increase in surf tourism and the demand for holiday rental properties that are close to surf breaks. Even the most recent WSL World Champion John John Florence, and surfing legend Kelly Slater have visited and spoken highly of surfing in Barbados. So, there is no better month than Barbados’ independence month to embrace the Independence Pro.

In our last post, we invited you to be a part of our illustrious 50th anniversary of independence celebrations as well as sharing our rich history and the relic proof that remains on the island. But, of course, Barbados’ history extends much further than the construction of government buildings, churches and rum shops; therefore, oblige as we introduce you to our natural heritage and history.

Barbados usually puts on an impressive showing of its tropical tunes and intoxicating island beats. But in early December, the iconic island sounds give away to orchestral renditions at the Classical Pops show!

Perfect year-round weather, pristine beaches, glassy waters and amazing food! Barbados has made an indelible mark as a foodie paradise, and hosts one of the most delectable food festivals the Caribbean has ever seen - The Food & Rum Festival.

Did you know that Barbados is in its golden age? This November - on the thirtieth to be exact - the island will mark one of its most impressive milestones to date: fifty years of independence. If you do the math correctly, it will take you back to 1966, when the people’s passion created a political force that ushered the island into a new era. But for the last (almost) fifty years, Barbados has built its charm on embracing its new path as well as the remnants of its recent history.

Traditional Christmas carols have been known to set the tone for what we expect at Christmas time - we dream of a white Christmas, and the ornate foliage is always hollies and mistletoes. However, the Barbados remix of these carols goes a little different - you’ll be dreaming of turquoise blues, and will quickly realise that the holly-decked halls have been traded for palm- and poinsettia frangipani-fringed coasts and streets! Barbados at Christmas is magical, and to experience the island at this most wonderful time of the year is to witness an even more joyful, warming spirit than the already welcoming personality innate of Barbadians and their heritage. So, add these five things to your list (be sure to check it twice!) and you will understand why Barbados may be your best Christmas gift yet!

You’ve just come off of having a perfect summer holiday, but you are already thinking about your next getaway - Christmas holiday. Traveling at Christmastime is characterized by bustling gateways, exciting family get-togethers, and the smiling faces of loved ones you haven’t seen in ages. But, it is this influx of travelers that creates an exceedingly high demand for flights, accommodation and everything else in between. Therefore, when considering travelling to a destination as sought after as Barbados during this season, you must heed to the most important thing on the seasoned Christmas travelers’ cheat sheet: book everything early.

So you’ve come for a summer getaway to Barbados, and what a getaway it has been: you’re sporting swimwear instead of layers and you’re thoroughly enjoying your palatial villa, where everything is at your fingertips. We’d bet that for many, this is the definition of a perfect holiday. But what happens now the sun’s gone down, the jetskis are all packed up but you’re buzzing with as much energy as you were this morning? Don’t fret- Barbados is teeming with nightlife to match any social butterfly’s tastes. And if you are here in summer, you and your friends are especially in for a treat.

Our last blog entry was designed to give the adrenaline junkies some tips on what to do whilst on the island. But we’re equally aware that many of our guests come to Barbados time and time again because of what a relaxing destination it can be.

With stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage...Jamaica has so much to explore!

Enjoy days soaking up the sun on your own private beach, get adventurous and explore the natural beauty of the island, learn the ska, feast on famous local dishes and just be prepared to have the time of your life on a Jamaica Summer Holiday.

This is it. You’ve arrived in paradise. The friendly driver who greeted you and your family at the airport has just dropped you off at your idyllic Blue Sky Luxury villa and the property manager has just shown you around. The pantry is fully stocked with all of the little goodies that the kids love...and there’s that bottle of bubbly that you requested from the Concierge last week before you left. You see the excitement on your children’s faces...and you have got to admit it: you’re pretty thrilled yourself. This extremely warm welcome bodes well for a great holiday.

The great thing about a Barbadian holiday is its versatility: want to bask in the sun all day whilst you catch up on some reading? Be our guest. Prefer to be adventurous and visit some of the many historic sites around the island? Great idea.

Many visitors are drawn to Barbados for its endless beaches and pristine turquoise oceans, but there’s so much more to love and experience on our Caribbean island. When our Blue Sky Luxury villa guests reach out to our concierge team to inquire about activities, we’re always excited to tell them what’s on our action-packed events schedule.

Ah, vacation time. As soon as those dates are booked, the whole family gets excited. Parents want to unwind, kids want to make sandcastle magic, and grandparents are thinking up ways to spoil everyone even more than usual. And then the planning begins…

As another year rolls around, many of us use this ‘new’ calendar as a launching pad for fresh beginnings within our personal and professional lives. If you are really ready for 2016, we recommend you make your resolutions with the ultimate goal being to enjoy life to the fullest. And obviously a Caribbean Holiday…is the ideal way to make this happen.

Check out our recommendations for your BEST 2016!

As far as tropical paradise goes, Barbados is pretty hard to beat! Year round sunshine, gorgeous crystal clear waters, friendly people and a never-ending calendar of events keep visitors coming back time and again for more! The busiest season is winter of course, when snowbirds seek escapism from the endless cold, the appeal is obvious. But there is a little known secret that many in the diaspora know: SUMMER is where the ‘real’ action is.

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) and JetBlue Airways (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced plans to offer its highly successful Mint experience from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Barbados (BGI), one of the top Caribbean routes for the airline. Travelers from the Eastern region of the U.S. now have a premium travel option at an affordable fare with Mint beginning on November 7, 2015, giving jetsetters a new reason to head to the sun-drenched island.

Every year, the Barbados Horticultural Society holds an Open Garden Programme during January and February, whereby private gardens are opened to the public. This event happens on a Sunday afternoon between 2:00PM and 6:00PM. This past Sunday, 22nd February 2015, the Open Garden evening was held at one of Blue Sky Luxury's Flagship villas, Fustic House Private Estate.

We are all excited and ready to head to Bushy Park for the thrills and adrenaline-filled Top Gear Festival! The new and improved Bushy Park Circuit will be the setting of this festival when it lands in Barbados on the 17th and 18th of May 2014. Come fully prepared for this weekend of non-stop motoring action in Barbados!

For those of you who are unsure of how to get to Bushy Park, take a look at our illustrative maps!

It might sound odd but after five years of supporting the Caribbean and travel industry's struggle to have the UK Government reform its Air Passenger Duty (APD) tax bands, at long last there is a measure of success.

Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May, Top Gear Festival Barbados will feature an awe-inspiring line up of cars and driving talent including The Stig, the Top Gear Stunt Team and guest drivers from the world of motorsport and entertainment.

Delicious…sumptuous…savory or just simply, “delightful’. These are all words you could use to describe exceptional culinary delights, and we guarantee that these are just a few of the words that will come out of your mouth when you experience the Barbados Food, Wine and Rum Festival taking place between November 21-25 2013. Taste your way through 4 days of culinary experiences sure to leave you yearning for seconds.

On Friday 21st June over 300 Travel Agents from around the world will enjoy a taste of Barbados with a full street carnival in St. Lawrence Gap. Come out and join the colourful display and pulsating music as these folks are treated to the best of Barbados. See more details here.

How fabulous to be able to have so many wonderful clients, guests and friends all on island at the same time. Last Wednesday (20th Feb) was the ideal time for us to host a sunset cocktail party with many folks in for Half-Term holiday, pre-Easter break and ... Just because! Weather in the UK and North America has been less than appealing, so being able to vacation in Barbados at one of our Blue Sky Luxury holiday homes is the best way to spend a harsh winter. Click on Read More to see our album of smiling happy Owners and guests!

After many months of carefully considered design and development, the new Holiday Rentals brand for Bajan Services Limted has been launched as Blue Sky Luxury. This new brand is dedicated solely to the firms well-established luxury holiday rentals business and showcases it’s 100 strong exclusive portfolio of ‘best in class’ villas and apartments.